2020 Volvo XC90

The romances fade as soon as you decide to rev that engine. Because it’s a four-cylinder – In a luxury SUV! The engine is powerful enough but it’s also very honest in telling you that it’s a 4 cylinder with a characteristic drone – not impressive in a luxury SUV. The ride quality also has niggling issues among the well-rounded rivals.

Giving a neck-to-neck competition to the 2017 Volvo XC90 SUV are three other leading luxury SUVs in the USA auto-market, which are namely the Acura MDX, BMW X5 sDrive 35i and the Lexus RX 350. By performing a comprehensive comparison between the Volvo XC 90 and its competitors, we have to extract the worthiness of owning a Volvo XC 90 SUV.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 starts at $48,350 for the base T5 Momentum trim and goes up to $63,850 for the top of the line Inscription trim. All the powertrain – T5 (FWD or AWD), T6 (AWD) and T8 (eAWD) are available even in base momentum trim. The R-Design trim that includes racy highlights starts at $58,300.

More luxuriously appointed inscription trim ($59,150) gets you the linear walnut veneer trim with natural grains. Only T6 and T8 powertrain are available in Inscription trim. The opting T8 hybrid gets you gorgeous crystal gearshift knob. Those in search of ultimate Swedish luxury can get the Excellence trim. Then again, excellence comes at a cost – $104,900 to be precise.

Trims	Momentum	R-Design	Inscription
MSRP T5	$48,350	$58,100	NA
MSRP T6	$56,300	$62,000	$62,600
Key Features	Active Bending Lights	Airbags, Driver/Front Passenger	Airbags, Driver/Front Passenger
	Airbags, Driver/Front Passenger	front parking sensors	adaptive headlights
	Blind Spot Information System (BLIS™) and Cross Traffic Alert	Ambient lighting	Headlight washers
	Automatic Braking After Collision	Paddle shifters	top-view parking system
	Brake Pedal Release	upgraded sport seats (with power thigh support)	Front parking sensors
	City Safety Collision Avoidance Technology	premium leather upholstery	Head-up display
	Daytime Running Lights with Daylight Sensor	Harman Kardon premium sound system	Heated steering wheel
	Door Handle Illumination	Navigation	Front seat massage
	Volvo On Call and Smartphone Integration	Rear window shades	Heated rear seats
	Welcome and Home Safe Light	Leather grab handles
	WHIPS Whiplash Protection System
	Sun Visors

We Recommend

Volvo XC90 T6 momentum seems to be the most sensible choice for us. Its 316 hp turbo-supercharged I4 will deliver effortless performance and it gets numerous top of the line features like four-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats and adaptive headlights. Importantly, higher trims ride on larger wheels compromising ride quality.

In the powertrain of 2020 Volvo XC90 SUV, there are three different engines available namely, the T5, T6 and T8. The T5 is a 2.0-Liter Turbocharged engine which can produce a maximum 250 hp of power along with 258 lbs.-ft. of torque. The engine capacities of both the T6 and T8 are same as that of the T5 but the major difference lies in the fact that the T6 engine gets added with a supercharger while the T8 incorporates an additional electric motor for powering the vehicle.

The addition of a supercharger to the base 2.0 L turbocharged engine causes the T6 to have more power and torque output, which corresponds to 346 hp and 295 lbs.-ft. On the other hand, the electric motor present in the T8 plug-in hybrid engine makes it the mightiest with a maximum 400 hp of power and 472 lbs.-ft. of torque.  

Models	Volvo XC90 T5 Momentum	Acura MDX SUV	Audi Q7 2.0 TFSI Premium	Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring	BMW X5xDrive 40i Sports Activity Vehicle	Mercedes GLE 400 4Matic
MSRP	$48,350	$45,295	$53,550	$41,835	$61,695	$56,695
Engine	2.0L i4	3.5L V6	2.0L i4	2.5L i4	2.0L i6	3.0L V6
Transmission	8 Speed automatic	9 Speed automatic	8 Speed automatic	6 Speed automatic	8 Speed automatic	9 Speed automatic
Horsepower	250 hp@ 5500rpm	290 hp@ 6200rpm	252 hp@ 5000rpm	227 hp@ 5000rpm	335 hp@ 5500rpm	329 hp@ 5250 rpm
Torque	258 ft-lbs@ 1500rpm	267 ft-lbs@ 4700rpm	273 ft-lbs@ 1600rpm	310 ft-lbs@ 2000rpm	330 ft-lbs@ 1500rpm	354 ft-lbs@ 1600rpm

The T5 is available in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configuration. XC90 T6 only gets AWD and the plug-in hybrid T8 gets AWD as standard. Taking the base XC90 T5 Momentum trim for the comparison, its engine power and torque falls short against all the three rivals.

Moreover, the BMW X5 sDrive 35i has the highest power and torque figure of 300 each. For realizing gear shifts, each Volvo XC90 SUV, BMW X5 sDrive 35i and Lexus RX 350 employs an 8-speed automatic transmission, while a 9-speed automatic transmission is present in the Acura MDX.  

Acceleration

In the acceleration department, the Volvo XC90 performs well with its 0-60 mph time of 7.5 seconds.n. Volvo XC90 with the T6 engine can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds.

The supercharger is engineered to provide a responsive engine even at low rpm. However, a slight delay can still be felt between pressing the gas pedal and getting that kick in the back. Also, the small 4 cylinders can emit a drone at high rpm that feels crude compared to large silky engines in the competitors.

Models	Volvo XC90 T5 Momentum	Acura MDX	Audi Q7 2.0 TFSI Premium	Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring	BMW X5 xDrive 40i	Mercedes GLE 400 4Matic
0-60 MPH	7.5 sec	6.3 sec	5.9 sec	7 sec	5.3 sec	5.6
Quarter mile	15.3 sec	14.8	15.7	15.7	13.7	14.1
Engine	2.0L i4	3.5L V6	2.0L i4	2.5L i4	2.0L i6	3.0L V6
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)	N/A	8.4	8.4	7.4	9.3	8.8

Among the other three rivals, both the Acura MDX and BMW X5 sDrive 35i are faster than the XC90 SUV. The annual emission of the Volvo XC90 is estimated to be 7.4 tons, which is the least amidst the competition. On the other hand, the BMW X5 is the most polluting vehicle.  

Braking Performance

For braking the XC90 SUV, 13.2-inch brakes are used for decelerating the front tires while the rear tires use 12.1-inch brakes. The brake pedal has a short and firm travel that inspires confidence. In a panic braking situation, there is no nosedive and the large SUV stops from 70 mph in 167 feet.

The SUV offers a braking distance of 113 feet (halt from 60 mph). Also, the 2019 XC90 comes standard with automatic emergency braking.

Model	Volvo XC90 T5 Momentum	Acura MDX	Audi Q7 2.0 TFSI Premium	Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring	BMW X5 xDrive 40i	Mercedes GLE 400 4Matic
Brake Front (in.)	13.2	12.6	14.8	12.6	N/A	13
Brake Rear (in.)	12.1	13	13.8	12.8	N/A	12.8
Curb Weight (lbs.)	4771	4032	4696	4217	4813	4751
60-0 MPH (ft.)	113	116	136	127	119	118

However, when compared with the competing SUVs, the front brakes of the Volvo XC90 SUV are similar to Acura MDX but it provides a better braking distance.

Towing Capacity

Your luxurious XC90 even with base T5 AWD can tow up to 4000 pounds. Quite useful for taking that expensive jet ski to your favourite lake.

Model	Volvo XC90 T5 Momentum	Acura MDX	Audi Q7 2.0 TFSI Premium	Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring	BMW X5 xDrive 40i	Mercedes GLE 400 4Matic
Towing Capacity (lbs)	4000	3500	4400	3500	6600	7200

However, BMW X5 xDrive 40i can tow upto 6600 pounds. Still, we think 5000 pounds is more than enough for anyone and anything more is just for bragging rights. 

Volvo has engineered the  XC90‘s powertrain section pretty well, which results in it to have an excellent fuel efficiency. While driving in the city, the XC 90 delivers a fuel economy of 21 MPG, which is greatest among the rivalry. On the other side, the fuel economies of both the Acura MDX and Mazda CX-9 are the most while cursing on highways. Overall, the combined fuel economy offered by the Volvo XC90 stands unbeatable at 24 MPG.  

Model	Volvo XC90 T5 Momentum	Acura MDX	Audi Q7 2.0 TFSI Premium	Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring	BMW X5 xDrive 40i	Mercedes GLE 400 4Matic
MPG (city)	21	20	19	22	18	17
MPG (highway)	30	27	25	28	24	23
MPG (combined)	25	23	21	24	20	20

Volvo XC90 T6 gives 20 mpg in city and 27 on the highway for a combined EPA rating of 23 mpg. However, Audi Q7 is only marginally thirstier at 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway for a combined EPA rating of 21 mpg but with more refinement. 

The contested luxury SUV is full of competitors – with different tricks up the sleeve. The XC90 however, continues the Volvos Swedish minimalistic and extremely tasteful approach. Unlike the polished-to-almost-synthetic wood trim on other luxury marques, the XC90 has bare walnut wood displaying natural grains.

If you get yourself the T8 powertrain, you can enjoy those meticulously finished crystal gear knobs. The switches are unconventionally operated and have knurled finish for a special feel – something desired in a $60k car. What differentiates the XC90 from others is that everything is serenely simple and focus is getting everything right rather than attracting attention.

Ergonomics are spot on and everything feels to come naturally within your reach. The seemingly infinitely adjustable steering wheel ensures everyone gets the driving position they desire and outward visibility is unrestricted. Volvo has shunned the trend of thick D pillars in SUVs affording you best in class rear visibility.

Model	Volvo XC90 T5 Momentum	Acura MDX	Audi Q7 2.0 TFSI Premium	Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring	BMW X5 xDrive 40i	Mercedes GLE 400 4Matic
Passenger capacity	7	7	7	7	5	5
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	38.9/57.7/40.9	38.1/61.1/41.4	38.4/59.5/41.7	39.3/57.9/41.0	40.8/60/39.8	38.9/58.5/40.3
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	38.5/56.5/37.0	38.3/59.1/36.6	38.8/58.5/38.8	38.5/58.1/39.4	38.7/58.1/37.4	38.5/58.4/38.4

The XC90 has among the best in class headroom in the class and the third row is most spacious in the segment. Volvos claim of giving equal importance to all the occupants is justified. Analyzing the competition, only the Acura MDX has a greater passenger capacity of 7 due to the availability of the 3^rd row.

As Volvo only manufactures luxury car models, so having magnificent interiors is just a trait of Volvo-made cars. This fact also holds true for the XC90 SUV and its interior is also awe-inspiring. Apart from the luxurious looks, the SUV also has some competent features inside it, which are listed as follows:

• Integrated Center Booster Cushion in the second row
• Hand-free entry
• 4 one-touch power windows
• Cruise Controls on steering wheel
• Leather finished steering wheel
• Dual illuminating vanity mirrors
• Cup holders at both the front and rear section
• Bucket front seats
• 8-way power-adjustable driver and front passenger seat
• Foldable rear seat for extra storage capacity

Cargo Capacity

The Volvo XC90`s conservative exterior styling has paid dividend here with best in class luggage space in all configuration. With all three seats up, the XC90 has a cargo volume of 16 cubic feet shared with Audi Q7. With the second row folded, it increases to 42 cubic feet – marginally above the Q7 (41 cubic feet).

When all rows are folded, the XC90 can swallow all your expensive adventure gear easily with 86 cubic feet of luggage volume. That’s considerably more spacious than the Audi Q7 (77 cubic feet). Also, the optional air suspension allows the lowering of rear-end for convenient loading of luggage.

Model	Volvo XC90 T5 Momentum	Acura MDX	Audi Q7 2.0 TFSI Premium	Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring	BMW X5 xDrive 40i	Mercedes GLE 400 4Matic
Cargo Volume (ft.3)	41.8	15.0	14.8	14.4	33.9	38.2

Only the Acura MDX has larger cargo volumes of 43.4 cubic feet to seat 2 and 90.9 cubic feet to seat 1 as compared to the XC 90. Moreover, because of the presence of the third row, the Acura MDX also offers an additional cargo space of 15.8 cubic feet.

Infotainment System

The XC90 features a centre-mounted infrared interactivity touchscreen in portrait orientation. Infrared technology is not only cool, but it also ensures that the touchscreen can even be used while wearing gloves – like when you are at your ski resort. However, the touch response is still not as responsive as the one in the Audi Q7.

Volvo XC90 gets Android Auto and Apple Carplay on all trim as standard. The optional HUD projects important data on the windscreen (Fan of fighter jets? Check the option box). However, they can’t be read with polarized glasses. For the audiophiles, Volvo offers 19 speaker Bowers and Wilkins audio system as a $3,200 option (standard on Excellence trim) and it looks as glorious as it sounds.

The XC90 follows the Volvo tradition of minimalistic and functional but tasteful design. It's crisp styling that clearly stays away from any superfluous styling element is refreshing among the current high-end SUVs trying hard to get attention (except the range rover probably).

“Thor hammer” LED headlight is the signature design element of the modern Volvo and tail light is equally distinctive. The upright radiator grille with vertical chrome slats look imposing and bonnet has two clean lines extending from either side of radiator grille to the windscreen.

The clean elegant profile of XC90 continues to the side with the almost upright D pillar giving it a stately stance. Glasshouse is tastefully surrounded by chrome trim and there is nothing else to take note of. It’s all simple and the XC90 relies on its exquisite proportion to create a profile that blows away your senses. Spare the folks staring at it on the parking lot.

Model	Volvo XC90 T5 Momentum	Acura MDX	Audi Q7 2.0 TFSI Premium	Mazda CX-9 Grand	BMW X5 xDrive 40i	Mercedes GLE 400 4Matic
Curb weight (lbs.)	4771	4032	4696	4217	4813	4751
Length(in)	194.9	196.2	199.6	199.4	194.3	189.1
Width(in)	84.3	77.7	77.5	77.5	78.9	78.9
Height(in)	69.9	67.4	68.5	69.0	69	70.7
Ground clearance (in)	9.4	7.3	8.1	8.8	8.5	7.2
Wheelbase (in)	117.5	111.0	117.9	115.3	117.1	114.8
Track width (in) F/R	65.7/65.8	66.3/66.3	66.1/66.6	65.3/65.2	66.1/66.9	64.9/65.2

The ground clearance of the Volvo XC90 SUV is outstanding and measures about 9.4 inches. On the other hand, both the BMW X5 sDrive and Lexus RX350 have the 2^nd best ground clearance of more than 8 inches.

Exterior Features

The XC90 has an exterior, which looks dashing and sturdy at the same time. Moreover, the exteriors even become more appealing and dominant when moving up to the higher-level trims. Keeping only the standard exterior features as a priority, the following are the main highlights:

• Chrome tip exhaust
• Turn signal indicator mirrors
• Roof rails
• Body-coloured door handles
• Heated power door mirrors
• Power liftgate
• 18-inch painted alloy wheels
• LED Daytime Running Lights
• LED headlamp and uniquely styled LED taillights
• Illuminating glove compartment

Volvos has a hard-earned reputation for focusing intensely on safety. They have worked hard through the years to make cars safer and are even chasing the seemingly impossible goal of eliminating death or injury in a Volvo by 2020.

You can rest assured as they have incorporated all they have learned over the years in the Volvo XC90. As expected from a Volvo, you get world-first active safety features like run-off road protection package and auto brake at intersection capability. The passive safety feature also has some novel safety feature like brake pedal release.

Safety Features

The 2020 Volvo XC90 is loaded with an array of safety features listed below.

• Rear Door Child Safety Locks
• Daytime Running Lights
• Engine Immobilizer
• Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags
• Stability Control
• Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation
• Remote Anti-Theft Alarm System
• Tire Pressure Monitoring
• Traction Control
• Front, Rear And Third Row Head Airbags
• Pre-Collision Safety System
• Self-Levelling Headlights
• Emergency Braking Preparation
• Post-Collision Safety System
• Child Seat Anchors
• Emergency Braking Assist
• LED Headlamps
• Blind Spot And Lane Departure Warnings Accident Avoidance System
• Adaptive Headlights

Volvo XC90 vs Audi Q7

The Audi Q7 is one of the most well-rounded luxury SUV. It has understated but confident styling, a sharp and well-built interior that’s comfortable and spacious too and a great ride and handling. It’s also one of the fastest in the segment with a supercharged V6 that’s certainly more accomplished than the XC90`s little 2.0 I4.

Volvo XC90 vs Acura MDX

In comparison to the Volvo’s XC 90, the Acura MDX is priced a little lower at $44,050 and offers various advantages such as powerful engine, faster acceleration, and lower curb weight. Moreover, the length, seating capacity, interior space and cargo capacity of Acura MDX is also better than the XC 90. On the other hand, the Volvo XC90 has an upper hand in terms of low emission, combined mileage, ground clearance, and towing capacity.  

The second-generation Volvo XC90 has been on the market for almost two years now. However, it’s still one of the most charming SUV around both from outside and the inside. It’s also very practical with genuinely useful third row and a spacious boot.

However, the Volvos bet on extracting maximum power from a small inline 4 is not successful and larger engines from competitors are better sorted and suits better in a luxury SUV. The ride quality also leaves something to be desires – not a point we want to mention for a luxury SUV. If you absolutely can’t compromise on these, look towards the well-rounded Q7.

We think that these caveats are not a deal-breaker and if you can get over it, the XC90 will be a delight to look at every day in the morning and sit in for the commute. With Volvo`s legendary reputation for safety, you can also feel relaxed when your loved ones use your XC90.